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<h2>UFC's $7.7 Billion Paramount Deal</h2>
<p>The recent <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mmamania.com/ufc-paramount-plus-news-hub-fight-cards-schedule/410619/above-market-7-7-billion-ufc-deal-listed-as-reason-paramount-cant-buy-warner-bros-discovery">$7.7 billion agreement</a> between UFC and Paramount is anticipated to significantly benefit the industry.</p>
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<h2>Positive Changes Since the Deal</h2>
<p>There have been some tangible benefits since the deal was finalized. Notably, in the past seven weeks, bonuses have finally been adjusted to meet inflation rates, and the Meta APEX has expanded its seating capacity, enhancing event atmospheres. These updates could have occurred earlier, but the Paramount agreement seems to have prompted them. There are also unconfirmed discussions about increased athlete pay, but it's yet to be validated.</p>
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<h2>Funding Upcoming Events</h2>
<p>The financial boost from this deal is expected to support major events like the <em>huge</em> UFC White House gathering, which promises to be an impressive spectacle.</p>
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<h2>Concerns Over Ethics and Matchmaking</h2>
<p>However, there has been a noticeable shift in the company's ethics, with UFC commentator Laura Sanko highlighting increased pressure on fighters to achieve finishes in their bouts. Historically, the UFC has balanced sports and entertainment, but it seems to be leaning more towards the latter.</p>
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<h2>Matchmaking Issues in Recent Events</h2>
<p>The matchmaking and roster management are ongoing concerns. Looking back at UFC 324 and UFC 325, the title fights involving Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett and Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes 2 were mismatched. Both events did not showcase top-tier talent, with Gaethje and Pimblett's bout being especially lackluster.</p>
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<h2>Difficult Decisions on Fighter Cuts</h2>
<p>Roster management appears questionable, as seen with Jailton Almeida being released after a recent loss despite being a top contender. Similarly, cutting Javid Basharat seems unjustified, as he has shown potential in the Bantamweight division. This raises concerns about the UFC's commitment to developing fighters.</p>
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<h2>Long-term Implications of Recent Decisions</h2>
<p>The UFC's shift towards prioritizing entertainment over the sport can be linked to Paramount's desire to recoup its investment. Decisions have led to higher subscription costs, increase in advertisements, and a focus on spectacle, all at the expense of long-term divisional integrity. The situation mirrors what happens when corporations buy local businesses, where short-term gains can result in the loss of loyal customers.</p>
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<h2>Opportunity for Competitors</h2>
<p>It’s unfortunate that PFL isn't gaining traction, as they could potentially benefit from the UFC's current management issues.</p>
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